Electrons Collide: What Happens?

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In summary, when two parallel circuits come together at a junction, the currents simply add together. In the case of a copper wire and two magnets, the currents would collide and cause the electrons to bunch up in between the magnets. This is due to the linearity of Maxwell's equations, where two opposing current densities would sum to 0.
  • #1
Antigone
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What would happen i you forced two Electric currents to collide? Say we have two currents where one current flows "up" the other one "down", and they hit each other at a certain Place?
 
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  • #2
The closest situation I can think of that comes close to what you are asking is where two parallel circuits come join together at a junction. In that case, the currents simply add together.
 
  • #3
Drakkith said:
The closest situation I can think of that comes close to what you are asking is where two parallel circuits come join together at a junction. In that case, the currents simply add together.

Lets say we had a copper wire, and two magnets. So we conduct currents (electromagnetic induction) with the magnetic fields. If the magnetic fields moves uppwards then down, the current of electrons will flow to the "left". If we move the magnetic field down and up, the current will flow to the "right". Then couldn't these two currents collide, when they are traveling towards each other? From the left end of the wire, current flows, and then from the right end of the wire current flows.
 
  • #4
Maxwells equations are linear, so if you get a current density of +j colliding with a current density of -j then they sum to 0.
 
  • #5
Antigone said:
Lets say we had a copper wire, and two magnets. So we conduct currents (electromagnetic induction) with the magnetic fields. If the magnetic fields moves uppwards then down, the current of electrons will flow to the "left". If we move the magnetic field down and up, the current will flow to the "right". Then couldn't these two currents collide, when they are traveling towards each other? From the left end of the wire, current flows, and then from the right end of the wire current flows.

I believe you'd just make the electrons bunch up in between the magnets.
 

1. What are electrons and why do they collide?

Electrons are subatomic particles that carry a negative charge and are found orbiting the nucleus of an atom. They collide with each other due to the electromagnetic force, which causes them to repel or attract each other depending on their charges.

2. What happens when electrons collide?

When electrons collide, they can transfer energy and momentum to each other. This can result in changes in their direction, speed, or even cause them to be ejected from the atom.

3. Can electrons collide with other particles besides each other?

Yes, electrons can also collide with other subatomic particles, such as protons and neutrons. They can also interact with larger particles, like atoms and molecules, through various processes such as ionization and excitation.

4. How do scientists study electron collisions?

Scientists use various methods, such as particle accelerators and electron microscopes, to study electron collisions. These tools allow them to observe the effects of collisions and gather data on the particles involved.

5. Are electron collisions important in everyday life?

Yes, electron collisions play a crucial role in many everyday processes. For example, they are essential for electricity to flow through conductors, and they also play a role in chemical reactions. Understanding electron collisions is vital for advancements in technology and scientific research.

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